SM and AirAsia partner to enhance customer value and drive business growth

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SM’s retail loyalty program SMAC has recently partnered with AirAsia rewards to enhance the shopping and travel experiences of its members. In photo are (from left to right): John Patrick Cua, Chief Operating Officer, SMAC; Jonathan Ng, Chief Finance Officer, SM Retail; Herson Sy, Executive Director, SM Group; Nicole Tan, Chief Business Officer, AirAsia rewards; Ricky Isla, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia Philippines, Leong Diyao, Regional Head of Rewards Partnerships, AirAsia rewards.

The SM group’s retail loyalty program, SMAC, has entered a strategic tie-up with AirAsia rewards to offer enhanced shopping and travel experiences. This collaboration expands the value for both SMAC and AirAsia rewards members while strengthening SM’s presence across retail and travel sectors.

As part of the “My SMAC, My MOVE” lifestyle campaign, SMAC members can convert 500 AirAsia points into 125 SMAC Points via the AirAsia MOVE app, integrating the benefits of travel rewards into the SMAC ecosystem. This partnership builds on SMAC’s extensive network and introduces new rewards for frequent travelers and shoppers alike.

“We are excited to launch this collaboration with AirAsia rewards,” said Patrick Cua, Chief Operating Officer of SMAC. “By combining shopping and travel rewards, we’re enhancing the value of our loyalty program and offering more meaningful experiences to our members.”

SMAC Points earned through this partnership can be redeemed across a wide array of SM Retail Stores including SM Store, SM Supermarket, SM Hypermarket, Savemore, SM Appliance Center, and other popular brands like ACE Hardware, Our Home, Surplus, and Watsons.

Additionally, members can convert 200 SMAC Points into 300 AirAsia points via the SMAC website (smac.ph), providing more travel benefits and increasing the value for both shoppers and travelers.

“This partnership underscores our commitment to offering greater rewards and a seamless experience for our customers,” said Nicole Tan, Chief Business Officer at AirAsia rewards. “Working with SM allows us to enhance the value we provide to loyal customers in both the retail and travel sectors.”

The partnership brings business benefits to both parties. SM increases engagement and foot traffic across its retail stores while deepening customer loyalty. For AirAsia rewards, the collaboration taps into a new base of active shoppers, further strengthening its position in the Philippine travel market. Together, they create an expansive rewards ecosystem that combines shopping, travel, and lifestyle benefits.

This strategic tie-up aligns with both companies’ goals to drive customer loyalty, expand their reach, and enhance brand visibility. As SM continues to expand its service ecosystem, the partnership with a regional brand like AirAsia rewards marks a significant milestone in delivering lasting value for customers, investors, and both brands.

MVP-Led Landco Pacific Corporation Breaks Ground for Luxury Beachfront Residential Condominium: The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego

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A Final Call to be Part of the Philippines' Most Prestigious Leisure Community

Landco Pacific Corporation, a subsidiary of Metro Pacific Investments Corporation (MPIC) helmed by its Chairman Mr. Manuel V. Pangilinan, officially made a new construction milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego in the premier and exclusive beach community of Nasugbu, Batangas.

Key Executives of Landco Pacific: President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano, Chief Finance Officer Marycris Panganiban and Vice President for Commercial and Customer Experience Gerard Peñaflor; construction partner Metro Stonerich Corporation President Maximillian Quintos; LPPA Design Group architects: Founding Principal and CEO Leo Pariñas and Partner Leo Casison; Terrazas de Punta Fuego Village Homeowners Association Inc.: President Susan Meily and Chairman of the Board Tony Cabrera; together with strategic partners for the project marked the start of the construction of The Residences.

“We are thrilled to begin the construction of The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego. Thoughtfully-designed from the ground up, the luxury residential condominium marks a new era in upscale beachfront living and represents the final opportunity to become part of an elite legacy and upscale leisure community of Punta Fuego,” Peñaflor stated.

“This latest development is Landco Pacific’s last piece of property in Punta Fuego, and it’s providential that it’s in a beachfront. It is the culmination of the Punta Fuego development, we are offering the privilege to be part of this exclusive community, that I think centuries from now will continue to be relevant,” Peñaflor expounded.

Luxury Beachfront Living

The Residences is poised as a pinnacle of luxury, offering exclusive one to three-bedroom apartments within its beachfront condominium, comprising three clusters. These residences boast low-density living, panoramic views of Nasugbu Bay, and a seamless blend of Spanish Mediterranean and Asian Tropical architecture.

Punta Fuego, developed by Landco Pacific Corp. and Roxaco Land Corp. in the 1990s, stands out among Nasugbu's developments for its prestigious marina, golf course, and distinguished community, commanding a fourfold price premium over adjacent areas.

The new project is touted as a high-value investment, given the track record of Punta Fuego which exceeded 1,000 percent value appreciation since it was developed in the 90s, and offers a legacy to be passed to future generations.

At The Residences, luxury meets nature. Residents can enjoy close proximity to the beach, 800 meters of fine white sand, and lush landscapes. Each unit has a guaranteed sea view and features expansive living spaces with generous ceiling heights, large windows, and private balconies, ensuring privacy and a serene environment. The property is also designed with modern amenities like a Lobby Lounge, Garden Courtyards, a conference room, a pool with a function room, and a spa and sauna, offering a balanced blend of business and leisure facilities.

2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Award Winner

For its distinctive design and exclusive beach resort lifestyle offerings, The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, was named Best Waterfront Condominium Development, and Highly Commended as the Best Lifestyle Condominium Development at the prestigious 2024 PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards.

Dedication to sustainability

Emphasizing sustainable development, The Residences is pursuing EDGE Certification with a commitment to energy and water efficiency, tree preservation, and support for electric vehicles. The incorporation of a double-pipe water system, rainwater harvesting, and environmental initiatives further demonstrates Landco's dedication to sustainability.

“Sustainability is part of Landco’s DNA not because we have to, but because it’s the right thing to do,” stated Landco Pacific Corporation President and CEO Erickson Y. Manzano.

Yacht Lifestyle

Unit owners and investors of The Residences can enjoy the yachting lifestyle at Punta Fuego, Landco’s pioneering and premier seaside development along the coastline of Nasugbu, Batangas. On a yacht, enthusiasts find a sense of freedom and pleasure in the invigorating open sea of Nasugbu Bay.

Landco together with Anya Hospitality Group and organized by the Punta Fuego Yacht Club and the Philippine Inter-Island Sailing Foundation (Phinsaf), holds an annual Punta Fuego Regatta, elevating the yacht experience to a thrilling competitive sailing event.

Thrill seekers among the country’s top yachtsmen-business executives engaged in a series of races between boats of different classes, shared their love of sailing, and forged stronger ties with like-minded individuals who enjoy this water sport.

An exclusive, idyllic community

Unit owners will enjoy the privileges of Club Association Membership, granting access to the exclusive amenities of Club Punta Fuego and the Landco Privilege Club Program. With the commitment to maintain its high environmental and community standards, The Residences represents not just a home but a legacy within an idyllic seaside sanctuary.

For more information about Landco Pacific Corporation, renowned for pioneering premium landscapes for more than 30 years and its last call for the most prestigious beachfront condominium - The Residences at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, visit

https://theresidencespuntafuego.landco.ph/ 

or https://www.facebook.com/LandcoPacificCorporation

PAL Pledges Php10 Million to Empower the Next Generation of Filipina Pilots

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Philippine Airlines (PAL) seeks to address the gender gap in aviation through its Fly With Her program, which helps women pursue their dream of flying for the nation’s flag carrier. It recently pledged P10 million to the PAL Foundation, which oversees the scholarship program for women pilots.

“As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we reiterate our support to women who dream of flying for and even assuming top positions in the PAL organization,” said Alvin M. Miranda, PAL Vice President for Marketing.

Apart from the P10 million pledge, PAL will release a film inspired by a real-life story of a young girl who dreamed of becoming a pilot.

“When little girls see women take on leadership roles, it inspires them to do the same and possibly go beyond,” said Lilybeth T. Ng, PAL Assistant Vice President for Pilot Affairs.

The gender gap in aviation remains significant, with only around 6% of pilots worldwide being women.

An Ally of Women in Aviation

PAL has long been a staunch supporter of women in the airline industry. In 1989, its very own Captain Aimee Carandang-Gloria became Southeast Asia’s first woman commercial airline pilot to fly a commercial flight. She broke barriers again in 1993, by becoming the region’s first woman airline captain. PAL continues to lead the way in opening doors for women in the male-dominated industry.

PAL continues to work for clearer and more inclusive skies in aviation, on the strength of its signature service of #CareThatComesFromTheHeart.

Know more about the Fly with Her Program and PAL’s advocacy towards women in aviation by visiting https://www.philippineairlines.com/FlyWithHer.

DOT highlights farm tourism’s transformative potential at 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference

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GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco reaffirmed the Philippine government’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth through the promotion of farm tourism at the 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference (PIFTC), held Tuesday (Feb. 25) at the KCC Mall in General Santos City, South Cotabato.

The ceremonial turnover of hosting duties from General Santos City to Baguio City for the next Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference led by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, International School of Sustainable Tourism Chair Mina Gabor, and General Santos Councilor Virgie Tiongson Llido.

The three-day conference, organized by the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) in partnership with the DOT, brought together local and international experts, policymakers, farmers, and tourism stakeholders. The event aimed to highlight General Santos City’s potential as a leading destination for sustainable and innovative farm tourism practices.

In her keynote address, Secretary Frasco underscored the transformative potential of farm tourism in driving rural development, ensuring food security, and preserving the Philippines’ rich cultural heritage.

“At the heart of farm tourism lies a simple yet powerful idea: our farms are more than just places of production. They are living landscapes of culture, history, and sustainability—where traditions are passed down, innovation takes root, and communities find new pathways to prosperity,” Secretary Frasco said.

“Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we recognize farm tourism’s vital role in contributing to our nation’s prosperity. Guided by the National Tourism Development Plan, the DOT is committed to strengthening this sector through programs that empower local communities and promote sustainable agricultural practices,” she added.

With the theme “Innovations in Farm Tourism: Cultivating Growth and Sustainability,” the conference spotlighted success stories from across the country, including bio-diversified farming initiatives that have revitalized rural communities, such as General Santos City's grapes farming as an emerging industry.

Secretary Frasco reaffirmed the DOT’s dedication to positioning farm tourism as a vital pillar of the country’s tourism strategy. She also emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, local government units, and private stakeholders to ensure the sector’s sustainability and growth.

“By embracing our agricultural heritage and unlocking new opportunities in farm tourism, we cultivate a future where agriculture and tourism bring prosperity to our rural communities—while preserving these vital livelihoods for generations to come,” she remarked.

Passing the torch: General Santos City to Baguio City

One of the conference’s highlights was the turnover of hosting duties from General Santos City to Baguio City for the next PIFTC installment.

Secretary Frasco, alongside ISST Chairperson and former DOT Secretary Mina Gabor and General Santos Councilor Virgie Tiongson Llido, presided over the ceremonial handover of hosting duties, underscoring the importance of continuity in the promotion of sustainable farm tourism across the Philippines.

Malasimbo Music, Arts, and Kids Festival 2025 heads to historic Intramuros, March 8!

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Malasimbo festival returns this March 8 taking place in the walled city of Intramuros’ Puerta Real Gardens. The Malasimbo festival weaves music, arts, dance, environment, and culture into one historical adventure.

The Malasimbo Music, Arts, and Kids Festival, one of the Philippines' most celebrated cultural events, is set to return on March 8, 2025, with a new twist—this year, the festival moves to the historic Puerta Real Gardens in Intramuros, Manila. This exciting change of venue comes with a new partnership with Intramuros, a renowned cultural heritage site, promising an unforgettable experience that blends rich history with vibrant art and music.

A Historic Setting

Intramuros, known for its well-preserved Spanish-era architecture and cultural significance, provides a stunning backdrop for this year’s festival. The partnership with the Intramuros Administration underscores Malasimbo’s commitment to celebrating Filipino heritage and promoting cultural tourism. Festival-goers can look forward to an immersive experience that harmoniously integrates the historic charm of Intramuros with the festival’s modern artistic flair.

Exciting Line-Up

Main stage line up:

François K; Mike Love; DJ Shortkut; Selah Dub Warriors; La Crema; Brigada; Morobeats; Gundamfunk; Laneous; Tommy Sexton & the Suggestions; Orange Juice Asia

Mike Love

François K

DJ Shortkut

Silent Disco DJs:

Sky Dominique ; Flava Matikz ; John Type; Ezzrei ; J-Nice ; Antonne ; Polo Dino; Peebs ; 

Salamangka ; JP Sacaben ; Marga Chi

In addition to the electrifying performances, the festival will feature a Kids' Village, Silent Disco, and mesmerizing art installations by renowned visual artists such as: Agnes Arellano, Billy Bonnevie, Levi Cruz, Olivia d’Aboville, Cherry Fulo, Hohana, Veronica Iberreta, Indie Green Culture, King, Agus Loedin, Bianca Natola, Marco Santos, Troy Silvestre.

Discover the Magic of Malasimbo: A Creative Haven for Kids

As the Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival returns, families have more reasons than ever to join in the celebration. This year, the festival introduces a delightful Kids' Village—a dedicated space where children can immerse themselves in a variety of creative and outdoor activities.

Parents, imagine a place where your little ones can explore their artistic talents, connect with nature, and experience the joy of music and movement. The Kids' Village at Malasimbo offers a treasure trove of workshops and activities designed to spark creativity and foster a love for the outdoors.

A Creative Wonderland

From crochet and painting to drumming and yoga, the Kids' Village has something for every young artist and explorer. Camille Salazar will lead a colorful Sticker Workshop, where children can let their imaginations run wild and create personalized stickers. Arts and crafts lovers will enjoy the Nature Weaving Workshops by Cherry Fulo, where they can use natural materials and colorful yarns to craft unique and beautiful pieces. Hohana, a Malasimbo Visual Artist regular, will teach the art of crochet, allowing kids to bring home their mandala or dream catcher creations. International artist Jeona Zoleta will hold a painting workshop where kids can express themselves freely on a giant canvas.

For those with a flair for rhythm, the Drum Workshop by Billy Bonnevie and Jose Dufourt offers an exciting opportunity to learn basic drumming techniques and explore the world of percussion. Little cyclists can ride their way through the balance bike tracks with Bambike, designed to provide a fun and safe environment for toddlers and young kids to practice their biking skills.

Mindful and Playful Activities

The festival also features Poi & Hoop Workshops by Luisa Jimenez, where children can discover the art of rhythmic movement and express themselves through playful practice. The Yoga Workshops by Steve Manzano encourage mindfulness and relaxation, allowing kids to find their inner calm amidst the festival's vibrant atmosphere. Science enthusiasts can join the Liter of Light workshop with Illac Diaz, learning how to assemble lights and solar panels using sustainable materials. Gardening enthusiasts can participate in workshops led by Bea Macalino, while the Creative Healing sessions with Indie Green Culture Family will offer a holistic approach to well-being.

And for a unique musical experience, kids can head to the silent disco area, where they can wear headphones and choose which DJ to listen to. It's a fun way to enjoy music in a personalized and interactive manner!

A Family Affair

Malasimbo is not just about the kids—it's an experience for the whole family. While the children are engaged in creative activities, parents can enjoy the live music, explore art installations, and soak in the festival's unique ambiance. It's a chance for families to come together, celebrate the arts, and create lasting memories in the great outdoors.

A Historic and Beautiful Venue

For the first time, the Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival will be held at the stunning Puerta Real Gardens in Intramuros, Manila. This lush garden within a cultural and historic site offers the perfect backdrop for a festival that celebrates art and nature.

Join Us at Malasimbo

Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to introduce your children to the joys of creativity, nature, and music. The Malasimbo Music & Arts Festival is a celebration of art and culture that promises to be an unforgettable experience for all ages.

📅 When: 2pm onwards March 8, 2025 📍 Where: Puerta Real Gardens, Intramuros, Manila

Entrance ticket for kids below 10 years old: PhP1,000 General Admission: PhP3,450 for a whole day of music performances, DJs, art installations, and kids activities

Buy tickets at www.malasimbo.com

We look forward to welcoming you and your family to the Malasimbo Festival. Let's make magic together!

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Malasimbo 2015: A Double Weekend of Festivities- A life-changing adventure

A Sustainable Journey Filled with Life and Culture: CNN’s The Journey Matters highlights what’s to love about the Philippines

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Travelers are spoiled for choice when they visit the Philippines, this beautiful archipelago has 7,641 islands teeming with experiences that tourists will definitely love. From world-famous white sand beaches like Boracay, fantastic waves of Siargao, bustling cities, rich biodiversity, unique traditions, and flavorful feasts, there’s always something to love when you visit.

The show explores some of the places and activities that await in Siquijor, a small island filled with beauty and wonder.

Get to know more about the best of island life in the Philippines in the latest episode of The Journey Matters on CNN. This week’s episode showcases some of the country’s most popular destinations as well as the locals who honor the Philippines’ rich traditional heritage and work hard in protecting its diverse natural environment.

Tourism frontliners based in some of the country’s popular island destinations, share their stories of love for the Philippines. “Doing yoga around nature is very relaxing. It has a very healing kind of effect. I was born in Manila, and I've always wanted to live somewhere closer to nature. When I first came to El Nido, I fell in love with the place and decided I could try and maybe live here.” shared Bek Soriano, founder of Yoga Tayo in El Nido, Palawan. Bek’s Yoga Tayo has attracted a community of travelers, who seek wellness and inspiration from El Nido’s diverse natural attractions. Over the years, that community has grown with more travelers drawn in by El Nido's charms through its abundance of natural attractions and its welcoming people.

Meanwhile, on another side of Palawan, in Coron, Anthony “Joy” Rabanal and Darwin Agquiz, seasoned tour guides at Big Dream Boatman, have brought countless local and foreign visitors to see the breathtaking beauty of the islands, sharing their knowledge and ensuring that everyone has a wonderful experience. “I really love this job because aside from being a tour guide, I can also do something for our environment,” said Darwin. Like educating visitors on how to respect and protect nature and green life. “We get them really aware about what is really happening.” added Joy. This does not only help them protect their livelihood but mostly their home.

Local tour guides make it a point to also educate visitors on how to respect and protect nature and green life in Coron, Palawan.

From Palawan, the show also featured Siquijor, a small island which has become a popular emerging destination with local and international tourists, eager to discover its stunning beauty. “Siquijor is a very special place especially for tourists, the vibes here are still different from any other destination,” shared Luis Nathaniel Borongan, emphasizing on the island’s special ability to “heal” visitors. Tuob is one of Siquijor’s age-old natural healing methods to help ward off illnesses and bad spirits. The show explores some of the places and activities that await in Siquijor, which, just like Palawan, showcases idyllic island life in the Philippines, where there's always something to discover and to love at every turn.

El Nido, Palawan has attracted a community of travelers, who seek wellness and inspiration from El Nido’s diverse natural attractions.

Tune in to CNN tomorrow, Sunday, February 23 at 7pm HKT and catch The Journey Matters in The Philippines. Embark on a visual journey through the country and discover hidden gems, embrace the healing powers of nature, and witness the warmth of Filipino hospitality. Let the Philippines’ 7641 islands captivate you. This is a journey you won't want to miss.

NÜWA MANILA and NÜWA SPA at CITY OF DREAMS MANILA earn 8th and 6th FORBES TRAVEL GUIDE FIVE STAR RATING

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City of Dreams Manila’s Nüwa Manila and Nüwa Spa once again receive the illustrious Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) Five Star rating, earning their eighth and sixth awards, respectively, in the 2025 Star Awards. The world-renowned authority on excellence in luxury hospitality announced the much-awaited global awardees list on February 12.

City of Dreams Manila Property President Geoff Andres (center, second row) with some colleagues from Nüwa Manila and Nüwa Spa which merited the Forbes Travel Guide Five Star Award 2025. They are shown holding up eight frames to represent the number of times the hotel has achieved the Five Star Rating. The Nuwa Spa earned this year, its sixth Five Star Rating. Also in photo are Vice President-Human Resources Thesz Liwanag (center, first row); Director of Food and Beverage Chad Ogden and Director of Hotel Operations Steve Sasso flanking Andres; and Nuwa Manila Senior Manager for Rooms Division Alrine Zomil (right, first row).

These accolades account for the collective 18 FTG Star awards of City of Dreams Manila, along with its two other hotel brands – Nobu Hotel Manila and Hyatt Regency Manila -- receiving Four Stars. The hotels have also maintained their respective ratings since 2018, and Nuwa Spa since 2020.

One of the world’s best luxurious experiences as certified by Forbes Travel Guide can be had at the consistent Five Star Award winner Nüwa Manila (in photo) and Nüwa Spa at City of Dreams Manila.

City of Dreams Manila’s awards contribute to the total of 107 stars achieved by the integrated resort’s parent company, Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited’s (Melco) portfolio of hotel, dining, and spa facilities across its integrated resort properties in Asia and Europe. Melco, which gained three new FTG Five Star awards for 2025, secures its position as the leading integrated resort in Asia, topping the competition across all of Macau.

Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awardee Nüwa Spa for the sixth consecutive year since 2020, features a luxurious suite complete with a private bathroom and dressing area, soft seating, and soaker tub.

“We are excited to welcome new and returning guests at our properties in Asia and Europe in the year ahead, as we continue to and enhance our luxury hospitality and entertainment offerings across Melco’s portfolio,” Melco’s Chairman and CEO Lawrence Ho shares.

“We are deeply honored by these recognitions from the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide, marking another milestone in our journey as we celebrate our 10th year of delivering exemplary service. These awards, made possible by our hardworking and passionate team, inspire us further to set the bar high for hospitality and meaningful and sustainable luxury,” City of Dreams Manila Property President Geoff Andres remarks.

“Forbes Travel Guide’s Star Award winners exemplify excellence in hospitality,” says Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide. “This year’s list continues to reflect the changing landscape of luxury with properties setting the standard for authentic experiences while offering unparalleled amenities, enhanced well-being and delivering unforgettable moments. We are thrilled to recognize their dedication to creating truly world-class travel options for today’s discerning guest.”

FTG is the only independent, global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises. Its annual and much anticipated list helps discerning travelers select the “world’s best experiences.” This year’s winners can be viewed on ForbesTravelGuide.com. FTG compiles its ratings using an objective, independent and data-driven process. Incognito inspectors pose as everyday guests and stay at hotels, board cruises, receive spa services and dine at fine restaurants around the world. They test some 900 exacting standards -- emphasizing exceptional service, which accounts for 70 percent of a property’s rating. Newer standards focus

Love Is All Around At Richmonde Hotels

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Who says Valentine’s Day is just for couples? At Richmonde Hotels, love is all that matters! With offerings that welcome the celebration of every kind of love, anyone and everyone can rendezvous to Richmonde for a sweet escape or a hearty dinner feast.

HAPPY HEARTS UNITE AT RICHMONDE HOTEL ORTIGAS

Paint the town red and revel in good food and great company at Richmonde Hotel Ortigas’ Richmonde Café on Valentine’s Day. No romance is required here on February 14, so dine and indulge with family, friends, or workmates on this Red-Letter Holiday and make it an unforgettable night filled with fun, laughter, and tasty flavors. On the menu are appetizers, salads, and desserts at the buffet spread, salmon with avocado mousse, cream of beetroot with lime soup, a choice of filet mignon or sea bass for the main course, and caramel-cured egg yolk sorbet as palate cleanser. Served with a glass of white or red wine or mocktail, this Valentine’s Dinner is priced at PhP 2,598nett per person and is served from 7pm to 10pm.

Make it a TGIF kind of Valentine’s Day with your bestie or have the ultimate date with your special someone with Richmonde Ortigas’ Happy Hearts Room Package. Offering cozy overnight accommodations and two seats to Richmonde Café’s Valentine’s Dinner Special, this promotional package is sure to bring a blissful stay at rates starting at only PhP 7,800nett (room only) and PhP 8,800nett (with breakfast buffet for two), inclusive of Wi-Fi access, and use of the Health Club’s gym and heated indoor pool.

Over at The Exchange Bar, love isn’t just for pairs but for parties of three! Embrace the power of the triad and gather your best buds or bring along a third wheel for the special Trio Treats available for groups of three on February 14. Priced at only PhP 1,650 nett, get a drink-and-bar-chow set for three persons inclusive of three drinks each (local beer, featured cocktail, or non-alcoholic drink) and a choice of delicious platter good for sharing (chili pizza pocket, sisig pizza pocket, or nacho grande). What’s more, get to enjoy the retro beats from the live musical performance of the Big Bash Band at no extra cost.

For more information or to make a reservation, call (632) 8638 7777 / (63) 917 534 4352 (Richmonde Café) / (63) 917 859 7914 (Room Reservations) or email stay@richmondeortigas.com. For instant confirmation on room bookings, log on to www.richmondehotelortigas.com.ph.

IT'S A LOVE CELEBRATION AT EASTWOOD RICHMONDE HOTEL

Love is in the air, and at Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, everyone is invited to celebrate! Whether dining as a couple, or feasting with the fam or the gang, Eastwood Café+Bar’s Love Celebration Valentine’s Day Dinner Special is sure to be a delightfully satisfying and memorable experience. For just PhP 2,499nett, indulge in a delectable meal featuring a choice of soup, unlimited starters, salads, and desserts at the buffet table, and a choice of plated entrée of roasted prime rib, buttered tiger prawns, or salmon steak, while enjoying the performance of the live acoustic singer. Each diner also gets a glass of wine, a round of non-alcoholic drink, and coffee or tea to accompany the feast. A kids’ menu is also available for the little ones at only PhP 1,500nett.

Those wishing to extend the celebration or make it even more special, Eastwood Richmonde offers a Valentine’s Day Room Package inclusive of the Valentine’s Dinner good for two persons. Rates start at PhP 10,500nett for an overnight stay and PhP 12,100nett if with buffet breakfast for two. This package, which provides an exciting love-filled getaway for all in the vibrant Eastwood City, is available exclusively for stays on February 14.

To book a table or reserve a room, call (632) 8570 7777 / (63) 917 821 0333 (Eastwood Café+Bar) / (63) 917 5316867 (Room Reservations), email stay@eastwoodrichmonde.com, or log on to www.eastwoodrichmondehotel.com.ph for instant confirmation on room bookings.

LOVE ON A WEEKEND AT RICHMONDE HOTEL ILOILO

There’s no better place to celebrate this Valentine’s season than in the City of Love! Whether in love, waiting for love, or happily single, Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is treating everyone to a splendid stay to commemorate the holiday of hearts with its best rates starting at PhP 7,500nett per night with breakfast buffet for two, during the weekend of February 14, 15 & 16, 2025. Let the spirit of love soar with exciting perks to make your Iloilo getaway even more rewarding—a welcome amenity, 10% off on orders from The Granary, BizBar, and Zabana Bar (except for pastries), 10% off on pampering massage services, Wi-Fi access, and free use of the gym and pool.

For those with food as their love language, let The Granary’s Wine and Dine Valentine’s Dinner Buffet give you all the love that you need with its overflowing spread of gourmet delights highlighted by the cochinillo, turkey, and braised short plate at the carving table, assorted grilled skewers, tapas bar, and fry bar at the action stations, and lamb paella at the hot section, plus many more. Priced at PhP 1,850nett per person and PhP 2,150nett if inclusive of a bottle of wine, this feast for friends, families, and lovers is served from 6pm to 10pm on February 14th. Children 6 to 12 years old get 50% off while it’s free dining for children 5 years old and below.

It will be a heartwarming Valentine’s weekend for all at Richmonde Iloilo. For inquiries and reservations, call (6333) 328 7888 / (63) 917 563 3558 (The Granary) / (63) 917 580 9058 (Room Reservations), email stay@richmondeiloilo.com, or log on to www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph.

The Richmonde Hotel group is the first homegrown hotel brand established by the country’s premier real estate developer, Megarowld Corporation, under its hospitality division, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts. Currently, there are three Richmonde properties located in key commercial and business districts in Metro Manila and Iloilo City. For more information on Richmonde Hotel Ortigas, Eastwood Richmonde Hotel, and Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, log on to www.richmondehotels.com.ph and follow @richmondehotels on Facebook and Instagram.

Korean-Speaking Agents join DOT's tourist hotline

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Beginning in February, tourists can access support from Korean-speaking agents through the Department of Tourism's (DOT) expanded Tourist Assistance Call Center (TACC).

The DOT made the announcement on Saturday (Feb 1) on the expansion of the tourist hotline to provide Korean-speaking support, reflecting the Department's commitment to enhancing service for travelers from South Korea, the country’s largest source of inbound tourists.

Inquiring travelers can now receive direct assistance from a dedicated Korean-speaking agent available Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Philippine Standard Time).

“As South Korea continues to be our top inbound market, this initiative ensures that Korean travelers can easily access assistance, allowing them to fully enjoy the warmth, hospitality, and attractions that make the Philippines a destination to love,” stated Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “In alignment with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of a digitally empowered government, the DOT is dedicated to improving its platforms to deliver accessible, efficient, and world-class service to all tourists, both domestic and international.”

This enhancement aligns with the government's broader goal of digitizing public services, promoting a seamless, responsive, and tech-driven approach to tourist assistance.

The TACC has facilitated over 13,502 transactions as of January 30, 2025, servicing tourists from 71 different nationalities, with the Philippines, the United States, and Australia being the most represented. Common inquiries include general tourism questions, travel and tour services, DOT accreditation, and career opportunities.

A flagship program of the DOT under Secretary Frasco, the TACC was recognized as one of Asia’s premier customer support platforms, and was recently awarded "Best in Service – Customer Support (Regional Level)’ award at the prestigious Asia Best of Best Awards 2024 at Westin Dubai, Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai UAE.

In its ongoing commitment to tourist convenience and inclusivity, "the DOT is working to expand multilingual support services including Mandarin and other languages for a more diverse range of travelers. We understand the role of language accessibility in creating a smooth and enjoyable travel experience,” added Secretary Frasco.

In 2024, the Philippines welcomed 1,574,152 visitors from South Korea, representing an 8.1% increase from 1,455,977 arrivals in 2023. This figure also indicates a 2.5% growth compared to the 1,539,402 arrivals in 2019, demonstrating a complete recovery that has surpassed pre-pandemic levels. South Korea remains the Philippines’ largest source of foreign visitors, capturing over 26.46% of the total tourist arrivals.

For seamless and responsive assistance, tourists can contact the TACC through various platforms. The DOT emphasizes the updated mobile hotline at +63 954-253-3215, ensuring a more efficient communication channel for travelers. Additionally, landline users can reach the center via 151-TOUR (151-8687), while inquiries can also be sent via email at touristassistance@tourism.gov.ph. 

For real-time assistance, travelers may connect through Facebook Messenger at Department of Tourism – Philippines or utilize the Click2Call and Live Webchat services available on beta.tourism.gov.ph.